July16,2014

Congressman Adam Smith (D-WA) released the following statement after the Senate Republicans blocked the Protect Women From Corporate Interference Act:

“I am disappointed that Senate Republicans blocked a vote on the Protect Women From Corporate Interference Act today, which would reverse the Supreme Court’s Hobby Lobby decision. The Hobby Lobby ruling set a very dangerous precedent that allows employers to deny health benefits, in this case contraception, to employees based on a company’s beliefs. I believe that health care decisions should be left to the individual, their doctors, and their families; not their employers.

“This legislation, which was introduced by my friend Senator Patty Murray, would make it illegal for a company to deny any worker health benefits that are covered by federal law and would restore the guarantee that women have access to contraceptive coverage through their employer. In light of the Supreme Court ruling, it is critical that both the House and Senate pass this legislation. I am a cosponsor of a companion bill in the House, and will work hard with my colleagues to build support for this bill.”